Department of Physics FAQ page

Earth and Space Science

What is Earth and Space Science?

Earth and Space Science is a broad program that covers the four major sciences that deal with Earth and Space, i.e., Astronomy, Meteorology, Geology and Oceanography.

What degree do I receive when I graduate?

That depends on which program you complete. There are several programs available in Earth and Space Science. The Bachelor of Arts in Earth and Space Science is designed for students who seek a broad background in the earth and space sciences. Students can choose between two concentrations.

• The General concentration provides a broad background in all four areas along with a few courses that examine areas of interest to the student. Typically, this concentration is chosen in coordination with a major in a related field.
• The Secondary Education concentration mirrors the general concentration but also includes seven additional courses in education. A graduate of this program will be eligible for Pennsylvania teacher certification in earth and space science for grades 7-12 (dependent on grade point average and qualifying score on teacher examination).

Students interested in a career in one of the Earth and Space Sciences are encouraged to pursue the Bachelor of Science in Physics. Students can choose between three concentrations. Those interested in the Earth and Space Sciences follow the Earth and Space Science concentration, which provides a strong base for future study in one or more of the Earth and Space Sciences (i.e., Astronony, Geology, Meteorology and Oceanography).

Is it possible to concentrate in only one area of Earth and Space Science, e.g., just astronomy?

Yes and no. Students in the major must take a selection of courses in each of the four areas. In addition to these core, however, there is a limited selection of electives and students can choose electives that focus on a few of the areas. Still, there are not enough electives in a single area to be equivalent to a "major" in that area. On the other hand, since the university faculty includes experts in Astronomy, Meteorology and Geology, it is possible to conduct independent study and research in one of these particular areas.

I have heard about oceanography courses offered at Wallops Island, Virginia, during the summer. What are these courses and what courses are offered?

These courses are offered via the Marine Sciences Consortium. You register through ESU but attend the class over a 3-week session during the summer at Wallops Island. For a listing of courses that are availab, check out the home page of the Marine Sciences Consortium.

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